Which U.S. president initiated the "War on Terror" after the September 11 attacks?

The initiation of the "War on Terror" is most closely associated with George W. Bush, who was president during the September 11 attacks in 2001. In response to the terrorist attacks carried out by al-Qaeda, Bush outlined a broad strategy aimed at combating terrorism, both domestically and internationally. He famously declared a "War on Terror" in a speech shortly after the attacks, which included military actions in Afghanistan to dismantle the Taliban regime that was harboring al-Qaeda leaders.

Bush's administration took significant steps that defined U.S. foreign policy in the immediate aftermath of 9/11, including the invocation of the USA PATRIOT Act, the formation of the Department of Homeland Security, and the launch of military operations in Afghanistan aimed at targeting terrorist organizations. This approach was meant to prevent future attacks and ensure national security, marking a significant shift in U.S. defense policy.

The other presidents listed—Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Ronald Reagan—each had their own significant moments in U.S. history but did not initiate the "War on Terror" following the 9/11 attacks, which is a pivotal event specifically tied to George W. Bush's presidency.